The AAU Startup Program is structured in three phases. Each phase has a focus and in combination they help you develop your startup step by step.

Phase 1 – Investigation (3 months)
Validate your idea! We focus on the problem you are solving, and proving there is a need for a concept like yours. It pays off to lay a solid foundation in this phase, so you can move forward with a good conscience in phase 2 and 3.
 

Phase 2 – Development (6 months)
Find your business! We start looking at the business side of your concept as well as setting the right team to carry out a strong execution of the idea. Validation remains a key focus, this time mainly concerning the validation of your way to solve the problem you validated in phase 1.
 

Phase 3 – Acceleration (9 months)
Go to market! Time to find your way to the market (and the right market). We work on funding and business modeling among many other topics. With a validated problem and solution, we can start looking at validating your business model – what is the optimal way to build a business around your idea?

Phase 2+3 - Consulting Lab (6 months)

Consulting Lab is a customized track in the AAU Startup Program specifically aimed at startups with a consultancy-based business model. Before joining the track, you must complete phase 1 of the Startup Program and are then transitioned into Consulting Lab. 

 

By joining the AAU Startup Program, you and your startup team gain access to:

• A designated business coach for your startup team
• Office space in AAU's startup communities on campus in Aalborg or Copenhagen
• Startup workshops and network events
• Assistance with funding applications for seed capital.
• A mentor network comprised of experienced business professionals.

 

Consulting Lab is a track in the AAU Startup Program specifically aimed at startups with a consultancy-based business model. Before joining the track, you must complete phase 1 of the Startup Program and you are then transitioned into Consulting Lab. The Consulting Lab track lasts 6 months.

Consulting Lab is relevant for you if your startup's product is a consultancy service. The primary goal is for you to gain your first paying customer before the end of the program. We support you in achieving this through workshops, inspirational talks from professional consultants and stakeholders, group sparring, and 1:1 sparring with Consulting Lab's designated business developer.

During the Consulting Lab track, you will lay the foundation for your client network as well as be introduced to the guidance and services that are available to startups from the regional advisory system supporting entrepreneurs.

 

Yes, your idea must connect to your studies in some way. Maybe the idea is related to that exciting semester project you didn’t quite feel like putting away? What challenge or problem would you like to solve using your academic skills  and who would benefit from your idea for a new solution, service or product?

No matter your field of study, you can explore your idea's potential in the AAU Startup Program

If you study a health-related program, your idea might focus on a health challenge connected to patients, the healthcare system, or something similar.

If you study within the technical or digital field, your idea might, for example, be about connecting existing services on a digital platform, developing an app, or creating an AI-supported digital product.

If you’re studying an engineering program, your idea might aim to optimize existing technology or new product types, perhaps by focusing on sustainability or non-fossils.

If you study within the humanities or social sciences, your idea might be aimed at user groups that need clear communication of new knowledge or a service or solutions for improved well-being.

Most importantly, you should feel passionate about your idea and be motivated to explore its potential.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with us. We’re happy to help you clarify whether your idea links to your education, so that you can join the AAU Startup Program.

 

You have come to right place. We are here to help you get started on turning your idea into a potential business concept. We do that through sparring and by introducing you to lots of useful methods and tools along the way. 

Start by telling us about your idea via our application form. All types of ideas, big or small, are welcome as long as they are connected to your field of study.

All applicants are invited for an informal 1-1 meeting with a business coach from AAU Startup Program, who will answer all your questions and tell you what the program offers. You are invited to elaborate on your idea and your motivation for exploring it. The aim of the meeting is for you and the business coach to establish together whether the AAU Startup Program is the right match for you and your idea. If there is a match, you are accepted in the program.

Please contact us if you need something clarified before you feel ready to send us your application.

Absolutely! The AAU Startup Program welcomes all AAU students, including those who already run a startup at any level. We work with all types of early-stage startups.

However, please be aware that we may need to decline your application for the program if your startup is already generating significant profits. In that case, we will guide you to other advisory services, that will help you develop your startup.

Each application for the Startup Program is evaluated individually, so please share details about your startup/idea through our application form or feel free to contact us if you have any questions.